Pendlebury ends speculation about his Collingwood future

Collingwood captain Scott Pendlebury has signed a new two-year deal that will extend his glittering career into an 18th AFL season.

Pendlebury will remain at the club until the end of 2023, putting to rest any speculation he could be on the move.

The 33-year-old raised the possibility of a late-career switch during a radio interview in August, but later clarified the comments, saying he was committed to staying at Collingwood.

His contract extension is another boost for the Magpies following Craig McRae’s appointment as coach to replace Nathan Buckley.

“I’m glad to have come to an arrangement with the club to share in what feels like a new era,” Pendlebury said in a statement.

“Being a one-club player was one thing, something I am proud of, but my main motivation is to do all that I can to assist Fly (McRae) and the new coaching group develop the squad.

“If you are not in contention, you have to be working towards it. That’s exciting.”

Collingwood football manager Graham Wright said Pendlebury would continue to provide invaluable leadership for the Magpies’ younger players.

“One day, Fin Macrae or Tyler Brown or Reef McInnes will be able to look back and appreciate that in their earliest years they learnt from one of the best of all time in Scott,” Wright said.

“His achievements speak for themselves but his dedication to his craft and ability to inspire the wider group is a fabulous asset for our club.”

Pendlebury has played 334 matches for Collingwood — including 183 as captain — since debuting in 2006.

The Norm Smith medallist in the Magpies’ 2010 grand final replay win, Pendlebury has claimed five Copeland trophies as the club’s best and fairest.

He has captained the Magpies since 2014.

Meanwhile, Collingwood has added recently retired Melbourne defender Neville Jetta to its coaching staff.

Jetta, 31, will work as a development coach and also play for the Magpies’ VFL team.

AAP

Source: AFL NEWS ABC